American Association of State Colleges and Universities named a new class of 32 senior-level higher education professionals will participate in the Millennium Leadership Initiative.
Included in the leaders is LeManuel “Lee” Bitsóí, associate vice president for Diversity Affairs and special advisor for Indigenous Affairs at Fort Lewis College.
MLI provides individuals traditionally underrepresented in the highest ranks of postsecondary education with the opportunity to develop skills, gain a philosophical overview and build the network and knowledge needed to advance to the presidency.
Since MLI’s inception 22 years ago, 662 proteges have graduated from the program. One-fifth of MLI graduates have become a president or chancellor, and more than one-third have advanced significantly to other leadership positions within higher education, including at the state level.
In 2020, AASCU restructured MLI in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The institute will feature virtual programming and a tentatively scheduled, in-person meeting in the fall. Proteges will also have a yearlong mentorship with an experienced president or chancellor and four months of professional coaching from a retired president or chancellor.
